Request for Continuous Cooperation and Participation as a Pillar of Quarantine Efforts
[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun expressed his gratitude on the 3rd to the leaders of major religious denominations for their voluntary cooperation in practicing 'social distancing' to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19). He also requested continuous support and participation from the religious community as a key part of quarantine efforts, given the ongoing difficult situation of COVID-19.
On this day, Prime Minister Chung held a luncheon meeting with leaders of major religious denominations at the Seoul official residence. Attendees included Wonhaeng, Chief Executive of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; Kim Hee-jung, Chairman of the Catholic Bishops' Conference; Lee Hong-jung, General Secretary of the National Council of Churches in Korea; Kim Tae-young, President of the Korea Christian Federation; Oh Do-cheol, Director of the Won-Buddhism Headquarters; Kim Jin-gi, Acting President of Sungkyunkwan; Song Beom-du, Chief of Cheondogyo; and Park Jae-hee, Acting Chairman of the Korean Council of Indigenous Religions.
The religious community has so far postponed or suspended ceremonies such as Buddhist services, Masses, worship services, and commemorative events, or replaced them with online alternatives to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Furthermore, they plan to conduct or postpone major upcoming religious events such as Easter (April 12) and Buddha’s Birthday (April 30) online.
Prime Minister Chung emphasized, "The determination and dedication of the religious community are giving courage and hope to the people," adding, "The government will actively cooperate by promptly executing budgets to support religious and cultural activities, preparing support measures for non-face-to-face religious activities such as online Buddhist services and worship, and securing quarantine supplies for religious facilities."
In response, religious leaders said, "The Prime Minister’s direct presence at disaster sites, leading by example, and transparent disclosure of infectious disease information have been a great strength," and proposed, "The religious community will take the lead in supporting disaster response including COVID-19. Let us establish a communication manual between the central government, local governments, and the religious community for this purpose."
They also added, "The overseas religious community holds a positive view of the Korean government’s response to COVID-19," and "Through the COVID-19 response, we feel even greater pride in our country’s advanced medical system and health insurance system."
The religious leaders also requested proactive measures to prevent deepening polarization during the COVID-19 recovery process and to prepare for changes in the public’s lifestyle and consciousness after COVID-19.
Prime Minister Chung said, "Thanks to the wisdom of the people and the dedication of medical staff, we are overcoming the COVID-19 crisis, but we must tighten the reins again to stabilize the situation," and added, "The government will take greater responsibility and do its best to enable the people to return to their daily lives as soon as possible."
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